Home ownership has its ups and downs. On the plus side: redecorating! On the minus: discovering asbestos in your basement. But even through the not-so-fun times, it's important to keep your head.
Here, six tiny problems to look out for--and how to nip them in the bud.
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#1: Black Dots On Bathroom Walls
What it could mean: Bathroom moisture has turned into mildew.
Which can lead to: Major property damage and health issues.
#2: Damaged Or Missing Caulk Around The Tub
What it could mean: You've got water seeping behind your tub and wall tiles.
Which can lead to: Ruined floors and dangerous mold deposits.
#3: Dull, Worn-Out Hardwood Flooring
What it could mean: The protective top coat of polyurethane has worn off, rendering your floor susceptible to dirt and discoloration.
Which can lead to: Having to replace your entire floor.
#4: A Weird Stain On Your Ceiling
What it could mean: There's a leak above you.
Which could lead to: Water or (ew) sewage spewing through your ceiling and onto your stuff.
#5: Blistered Or Peeling Paint On You Windowsills
What it could mean: Pooling water.
Which could lead to: Rot.
#6: Shaky Stair Railings
What it could mean: Your newel post (that's the anchoring part of your staircase railing) isn't secure.
Which could lead to: The railing giving out.
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